Kenny Barron, an MVP and reassuring presence on scores of modern mainstream jazz recordings released over the last three decades, simultaneously has carved out an impressive solo career. His sixth disc for Verve, a likable outing with a stellar cast of blue-chip collaborators, is another jewel that shows off the poll-winning pianist's considerable strengths as a composer and bandleader.

Intimacy serves Barron well, as demonstrated by a lively tug of war with tenor saxophonist David Sanchez on McCoy Tyner's "Passion Dance," and a leapfrogging duet with guitarist Russell Malone on the up-tempo "And Then Again." Textures and rhythms vary regularly, too, with Regina Carter's violin showcased on "Um Beijo," Tom Henderson's muted trumpet at the center of Billy Strayhorn's "Passion Flower," and bossa nova rhythms and textures coloring "Sonja Braga" (named, if misspelled, for the Brazilian actress).

The title track drops a playful bebop line over a Latin-rooted rhythm, while Barron's bluesy piano intro cues a series of musical queries by the horn men on "The Question Is," and bassist Rufus Reid and drummer Billy Hart - a dream rhythm section - provide a pulsing beat for "Cook's Bay." It's an appealingly programmed set of tastefully delivered jazz that may err only in the overall restraint of the affair
- PHILIP BOOTH